If you’re on the hunt for a dazzling twist on classic morning pastries, this Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe is going to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls bursting with fresh strawberry sweetness and topped with a tangy, luscious lemon cream cheese glaze that perfectly balances fruity brightness with creamy richness. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll be excited to share with friends and family for brunch, special occasions, or just a mood-boosting treat any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role—whether it’s creating that tender dough, a luscious fruit filling, or the zesty glaze that ties it all together. These simple staples come together to craft a roll that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color.
- 3/4 cup warm milk: The perfect temperature wakes up the yeast and helps the dough rise beautifully.
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast: This is the magic behind the dough’s airy, fluffy texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tangy and spicy elements.
- 1 egg: Helps bind the dough while giving it richness and moisture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings softness and flavor deep into the dough.
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our dough, providing structure and chew.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced: Fresh and juicy, they add vibrant bursts of fruity sweetness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens and helps thicken the strawberry filling.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry filling so it’s just right—no runny mess here!
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling): Adds depth and warmth to the strawberry mixture.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The base for our creamy, dreamy glaze.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Blends beautifully with cream cheese to create ultra-smooth icing.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze to the perfect consistency.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brings a refreshing zing to cut through the sweetness.
- 1 tsp lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor for a bright, fragrant finish.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze): Rounds out the glaze flavor with soft vanilla notes.
How to Make Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by mixing the warm milk, yeast, and one tablespoon of sugar in a small bowl. Let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes until you see it become foamy and bubbly on top—this is your sign the yeast is alive and ready to give the dough a perfect rise.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the remaining sugar, egg, melted butter, flour, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead everything together for about 5 to 7 minutes until the dough feels smooth and elastic. Then cover the bowl with a warm towel and give the dough an hour to double in size—this patience pays off in pillowy softness.
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Filling
While the dough rises, it’s time to bring the fruit inside this recipe to life. Cook the diced strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract over medium heat, stirring occasionally. After 5 to 7 minutes, the mixture will thicken up into a jammy, fragrant filling that’s both sweet and just slightly tart. Set this off to the side and let it cool.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough and Spread the Filling
Once the dough has doubled, sprinkle some flour on your work surface and roll the dough out into a large rectangle. Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over this surface. This step is where the delightful surprise inside each roll begins to take shape.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Carefully roll the dough up tight, starting from one long side to form a jelly roll shape. Slice the roll into 12 equal-sized pieces and place them snuggly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures they’ll bake evenly and rise up quite nicely together.
Step 6: Let the Rolls Rise Again and Preheat Oven
Cover your rolls once more and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to create that golden crust we all love.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the rolls for about 25 to 30 minutes until they puff up and develop a gorgeous golden-brown color. Allow them to cool slightly—this resting time helps the swirl stay intact when you dig in.
Step 8: Make and Drizzle the Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze
Lastly, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to create a bright, silky glaze. Drizzle this over your warm rolls—the contrast of creamy, tangy glaze with sweet strawberry filling will have you swooning.
How to Serve Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Top your strawberry cinnamon rolls with a sprinkling of fresh strawberry slices or a little extra lemon zest for that lovely fresh look and a zesty bite. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a pretty, snowy touch.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, herbal tea, or a glass of cold milk to balance out their sweetness. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or savory eggs to give your table a perfect harmony of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the rolls straight from the baking dish for a warm, homey vibe or individually plated with a sprig of mint for an elegant touch. You could also add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt on the side for an extra special experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), keep the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This will keep them soft and moist, though fresh is always best.
Freezing
You can freeze baked rolls for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Warm your rolls gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave individually for 20-30 seconds. Refresh the glaze with a quick drizzle if needed to bring back that creamy lemon kick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries give the best texture and brightness, but if you only have frozen, thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the filling.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The steps are straightforward, and the reward is a bakery-worthy treat that’s satisfying to make even if you’re new to baking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling out and adding the filling.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the glaze?
For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese or coconut cream, though it might alter the flavor slightly.
Why add lemon juice and zest to the glaze?
The lemon adds a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness and richness of the cream cheese, creating a well-balanced glaze with more depth.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe brings together everything wonderful about breakfast pastries with fresh fruit and a twist of citrusy glaze that feels both classic and exciting. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weekend morning or impressing guests, these rolls deliver warm comfort and joy in every bite. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll be requested again and again!
Print
Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze are a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a sweet and tangy strawberry filling and a creamy lemon-flavored glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they combine fluffy yeast dough, fresh strawberry goodness, and a luscious lemon cream cheese topping to create a deliciously indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
Strawberry Filling
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the remaining sugar, egg, melted butter, flour, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and allow it to rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare Strawberry Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Shape the Rolls: Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the surface.
- Form Rolls: Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls. Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them slightly.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown on top. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and creamy.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the lemon cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls before serving for a zesty, rich finish.
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Kneading dough thoroughly is key to achieving soft, fluffy rolls.
- Let the strawberry filling cool completely before spreading so it doesn’t make the dough soggy.
- For best flavor, serve the rolls warm with the glaze freshly drizzled on top.
- Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container for 2 days and reheated gently.
